“What AT&T is doing in partnership with the Atlanta Police Foundation and the City of Atlanta is an incredible example of public-private partnerships that drive results – making our cities better, safer, smarter and stronger.” – Mayor Vince Williams, Union City, GA/President, National League of Cities
At the end of July, AT&T and the Atlanta Police Foundation hosted the National League of Cities Summer Board and Leadership Meeting Mobile Workshop. The workshop, “Connecting and Protecting Communities with Broadband,” attracted city officials and mayors from across the country who serve in leadership roles with the National League of Cities, to discuss the importance and transformative value of connectivity – whether it is a connection to equal opportunity or a connection that could help save a life.
The workshop was held at the Atlanta Police Foundation’s At-Promise Center in the historic Westside of Atlanta where the traditionally underserved are valued as “at-promise” rather than at-risk. Participants learned about how our Connected Learning Center provides Atlanta’s traditionally underserved youth and their families with access to free internet connectivity and educational tools so they can prepare homework, study for the GED, apply for jobs and participate in digital skills training.
“I’m grateful for the technology and connectivity at the At-Promise Center, and the opportunity to participate in the GED program. Because of the AT&T Connected Learning Center, I have the resources and support I need to prepare for my future.” – Chloe Brown, an At-Promise Center GED program participant
“With the At-Promise Center, our goal is to provide wraparound services for our youth that enable them to have everything they need to be successful – whether that’s in school, a job or life. AT&T is making an impact in Atlanta through the Connected Learning Center. Having access to technology and connectivity is truly changing the trajectory of our youth, giving them a better path to tomorrow.” – Dave Wilkinson, President and CEO, Atlanta Police Foundation
Attendees of the workshop also had the opportunity to interact with FirstNet®, Built with AT&T team members and witness first-hand the deployable assets that are revolutionizing public safety. FirstNet is public safety’s purpose built, nationwide communications platform that is dedicated solely to first responders, so no matter the emergency or location, first responders will have the reliable connection they need to keep their community safe whether in day-to-day operations, large scale events or emergency situations.
“The way we approach problems and issues in the 21st century requires innovative, forward-thinking solutions. Connectivity is at the core of how we do this and how we build safer communities – Dr. Cedric Alexander, FirstNet consultant
At AT&T, we are proud to collaborate with local decision-makers, community organizations and first responders to create public-private partnerships that connect Atlantans to a future with opportunities and help keep our communities safe. Through connectivity, cities across the nation will be better equipped to protect and provide a bright future for their residents.
“At AT&T, we believe connections are the foundation of a thriving community – whether it is a connection to equal opportunity or to one that could help save a life. We’re proud to engage in a meaningful discussion with the National League of Cities and city leaders from across the country about the importance of public-private partnerships in connecting our communities.” – Venessa Harrison, President, AT&T Southeast Coastal States
